Managing pain

The management of acute pain (e.g., injuries, surgery) is usually straightforward. However chronic pain management can be complex, especially for chronic pain that is not due to cancer. Chronic pain management usually involves a multifaceted treatment plan that includes many pain management strategies.

You've probably taken these medications for occasional aches and pains, to reduce a fever, or help with a headache. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ASA, ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, celecoxib), also called NSAIDs, are commonly used pain relievers that are effective for most types of mild to moderate pain.

Opioid pain medications, also called narcotics, are the strongest pain relievers. They are used to treat moderate to severe pain. Opioids are prescribed for acute (short-lived) pain or chronic pain due to cancer and other medical problems. Opioids are usually started at low doses then gradually increased to achieve pain relief or until side effects are not tolerated.

Adjuvant pain medications are medications that are not typically used for pain but may be helpful for its management. Adjuvant pain medications can include antidepressants, anti-seizure medications, muscle relaxants, sedatives or anti-anxiety medications, and botulinum toxin. Antidepressants Some antidepressants (e.

There are several natural health products available to treat pain. Many products have anti-inflammatory effects such as bromelain and cat's claw. Natural products that have antidepressant effects such as 5-THP, L-tryptophan, and St. John's wort, may also be useful as part of a pain management plan. Other products that may be helpful include avocado, glucosamine sulfate, and S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe).

When medication doesn't work or can't be used, there are still options to help control pain: Injections into a joint: Some people with osteoarthritis benefit from injections into a joint of either a corticosteroid (e.g., methylprednisolone, dexamethasone) to help reduce pain and inflammation or a lubricating material such as hyaluronic acid.

An epidural is a procedure in which a needle is inserted into the epidural space outside the spine and local anesthetic or analgesics (painkillers) are injected. An epidural is often used to to control labour pain or to provide analgesics before, during, or after surgery. Depending on the site of the operation and your health, an epidural may be used by itself, with sedation, or a general anesthetic.

Spinal anesthesia: What is it? Spinal anesthesia was first used in the late 1800s as a method of administering an anesthetic. Today, spinal anesthesia, also called a spinal block or spinal, may be combined with epidural anesthesia [link to epidural article], as they provide, long-lasting pain relief.

Non-medication options for pain control can be considered by anyone who is experiencing pain, but can be particularly helpful if you have chronic pain. There are several options to consider: Ice and heat: Ice reduces inflammation and slows down blood flow to the area where it is applied. So ice is helpful in the day or two after an acute injury or if you have swelling.

Biofeedback is a technique that provides you with the knowledge, awareness, and expertise necessary to scan your body for signs of stress (e.g., muscle tension, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and decreased skin temperature). Once you can detect these changes, biofeedback helps you learn to make changes within your body (e.

Acupuncture: what is it? Acupuncture is an essential component of traditional Chinese medicine and has been practiced in the Orient for over 2,000 years. Although acupuncture was introduced to Europe in the 14th century, it has only recently caught the attention of North American health professionals.

Why do we need physical rehabilitation? Over time, injured muscles shorten, go into spasm, become scarred and tender, and put stress on joints and irritating nerves, which results in additional pain. The injured muscles also progressively decrease their function, relying on other muscles to take over functions in the affected areas.

New research shows olive oil contains an anti-inflammatory ingredient similar to that of some common painkillers, but could it replace your meds the next time you get a headache? According to a study in the journal Nature, researchers have found a previously unknown compound in extra-virgin olive oil that they say acts in a manner similar to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen.

Additional Resources

Take control of your health

Subscribe to the MedBroadcast Weekly newsletter!

You have entered an invalid email address

Email Address :

We respect your privacy and will not share your personal information.

In order to receive our newsletter, please indicate that you accept the terms of our Privacy Policy.